Crafts Inspired by The Decemberists

The Decemberists are one of the most creative and interesting bands currently rocking the free world. Musically, visually, and lyrically they inspire many Craftsters with their artistry and unique vision. The Decemberists come from Portland, Oregon, and singer Colin Meloy is married to Portland artist Carson Ellis, whose work is featured on their beautiful album covers.

Their music typically tells a story (their fifth and most recent album is a essentially a long story based on British folklore and influenced by 1960’s folk revival bands like Fairport Convention). This storytelling makes them especially inspiring for art and crafts. After all, what is more fun to base a project around than interesting music and compelling story?
Here is just a sampling of some great Decemberists-influenced crafts we’ve seen here on Craftster. There was even a Decemberists swap! Check out the Decemberists tag for lots more goodies!

The Decemberists took their name from The Decemberist Uprising in Russia in 1825, and Carson Ellis’s artwork often uses Russian and other European motifs. This band is so crafty that they even sold embroidery patterns on tour! Now that is a band you have to love! Not only is Colin Meloy married to an artist, but his sister, Maile Meloy, is an author and contributor to the New Yorker. I can only imagine the creative energy flowing around the table at this family’s holiday celebrations!

What kind of music gets your creative juices flowing? Do you have a band or composer you turn to when you want to get in the crafty groove? Tell us about it!

Bluegrass and folk are generally my inspiration – particularly when I’m sewing. Late Tuesday is a now-defunct folk girl band from Washington state that I absolutely love, and I really like Alison Krauss, too. Country makes me want to puke, but bluegrass sends my spirit soaring.